We forged through the valley: Valley Forge, really famous old stuff
It wasn’t my choice; my friend picked Valley Forge National Historical Park.
We’d seen some goofy sights, so I had to compromise. You all know how I feel about famous, or not famous, old stuff. I didn’t much care for history in school, either, other than ancient history. It’s not that historical old stuff is boring, it’s just that I like the goofy stuff so much more.
Except we both thought this one was a bit boring.
Don’t get me wrong, I am grateful for and honored by the many sacrifices of those who gave their life and fought for our freedom. But they weren’t there. If they were, it would’ve been more interesting. Not like that, I mean I would’ve rather known more about the people than the place, etc.
The biggest problem? The park was huge – much too big to see and appreciate the exhibits on foot. You had to drive around the park from one monument or exhibit to the next. (Unless you’re an athlete – and there were more than a few folks there who seemed to use the long trail around the park for exercising rather than sightseeing.)
Lucky for all you blog-reading non-athletes, I took pics and looked stuff up on the web… Here’s your virtual tour (mostly of just the church and bell tower). You’re welcome.
Two of the exhibits and monuments in the park were particularly memorable: the museum exhibit showcasing the day-to-day life of the soldiers, the minutiae of their livelihood; and the Washington Memorial Chapel with its stunning National Patriots Bell Tower.
The National Memorial Arch is dedicated to the officers and private soldiers of the Continental Army December 19, 1777 to June 19, 1778.

My artistic shot of the National Patriots Bell Tower. I can’t decide it if looks cool, or like it’s falling over.
…the National Patriots Bell Tower is also home to the Justice Bell, a full-size replica of the Liberty Bell that traveled Pennsylvania between 1915 and 1920 in support of the women’s’ suffrage movement, and a wonderful collection of over 1,400 porcelain, glass, and metal miniature bells.
I did not see the 1,400 miniature bells. Would’ve loved that! I loved the many bells I saw in Bandera!
There is much more there, but again, be prepared to DRIVE around the park.
Very nice photos and very interesting post. I love your “art” shots. You’re getting pretty good at those. Love you. Happy trails…
Thank you! The art shots still need work,,, the bell tower looks to me a bit like the leaning tower of Pisa. Love you, too!